July 11, 16:57UTC+3MOSCOWRussia’s Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Andrei Kelin says it is surprising that Western countries have illusions about the so-called Poroshenko peace plan

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Russia’s Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Andrei Kelin

MOSCOW, July 11. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia is surprised by the Ukrainian authorities’ stake on the suppression of militia in the south-east and the West’s illusions about President Petro Poroshenko’s peace plan, Russia’s Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Andrei Kelin said.

“Unfortunately, the real civil war continues in Ukraine. Of course, one can cover the fact by euphonic words such as ‘anti-terrorist operation’, ‘measures for protecting territorial integrity’ and ‘measures for ensuring law and order’. However, the essence remains unchanged,” Kelin said on Friday.

“Their methods should be thoroughly investigated. Reports on using cluster bombs, toxic substances and incendiary devices should be examined,” Kelin said.

“It is surprising that our colleagues have illusions over the so-called Poroshenko peace plan that envisions the resolution of the crisis in Donbass through an ultimatum. It can hardly serve as a basis for a ceasefire,” Kelin said.

“Arms can be laid down only if guarantees are given not to use force and if an alternative is put forth. There are no such guarantees. Consultations are indispensable,” he said.

Earlier, Russia proposed the OSCE Standing Committee to take a decision that would ensure a ceasefire and launch a national dialogue.